FIFA hands Watford worldwide transfer ban over Samuel Kalu’s illegal deal

By Wale Mustapha

The world football governing body, FIFA have wielded its heavy hammer on English Championship side, Watford with a transfer ban over their acquisition of Nigerian winger, Samuel Kalu.

The Super Eagles attacker joined the Hornets in 2020 from French side, Bordeaux for a five year deal but has been struggling with injury which has blighted his chances to hold down first team football.

A Nigerian side, Megamu Football Academy were to be part of beneficiaries of Kalu’s transfer money but were left out of the largesse, which prompted the academy to approach FIFA for redress.

The deal, however landed the Championship side in transfer suspension following FIFA intervention.

A letter from FIFA reads in part indicated that “in this regard, we wish to inform the parties that a ban from registering new players internationally has been implemented by FIFA as of 19 July 2023.

“Moreover, and by the aforementioned decision, the Football Association (in copy) is requested to immediately implement on the respondent the club Watford FC, if not done yet, a ban from registering new players at the national level”, a letter to the club stated.

Watford confirmed the development but has reveal a statement whether they will appeal the decision or go by the ruling.